dog days
Meaning
The hottest, most sluggish period of summer; by extension, a dull or slow time.
Origin
From the ancient/medieval belief that the hottest part of summer coincided with the heliacal rising of Sirius (the “Dog Star,” in the constellation Canis Major), thought to add heat and cause lethargy or illness.
Notes
Often refers to the sultry late-summer stretch (esp. July–August). Can also mean a slow, unproductive period (business/news). Slightly literary but common.
Examples
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During the dog days of August, the city feels like it’s melting.
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We took early-morning walks to avoid the dog days heat.
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The lake gets crowded every year in the dog days of summer.
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Even the dog days couldn’t stop the construction crew from finishing on time.
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I always feel a little lazy during the dog days, when the afternoons drag on forever.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually plural: “the dog days (of summer).” Common patterns: “during the dog days,” “in the dog days of August/summer.” Rarely singular.
Synonyms
- the hottest part of summer
- midsummer heat
- summer doldrums
- slow season
Antonyms
- springtime
- the busy season
- boom time